Murut Heritage Showcased at Temburong Get-Together Ceremony for Sultan’s 79th Birthday
Temburong, The Gulf Observer: The rich traditions of the Murut community took center stage during the get-together ceremony with citizens and residents of Temburong District yesterday, as part of the 79th birthday celebrations of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
The Lun Bawang Murut Brunei Association presented an ethnic exhibition featuring traditional Murut food, a model longhouse, and a specially constructed wooden arch, traditionally erected to welcome very important guests during major family occasions such as weddings.
“We are honoured to participate in the get-together ceremony and be involved in His Majesty’s 79th birthday celebration,” said Association President Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Tamin bin Tuah. He explained that the exhibition also included the Ukui traditional dance, a gulingtangan musical performance, and a pesambah (gift) of Murut traditional items presented to His Majesty.
Tamin expressed concern over the impact of rapid modernization on Murut heritage. “Through events like today’s, we can showcase traditional items used by the Murut people to help spread awareness and knowledge about the Murut to the public, especially the youth,” he said.
Also featured at the exhibition was the Kelab Sukan Sumpit Lun Tau (KSSLT), which displayed traditional blowpipes and held live demonstrations. KSSLT Chairman Chin Haji expressed pride in the club’s participation, noting that the group, established in September 2023, currently has 39 members dedicated to preserving the blowpipe tradition as an integral part of Murut culture.
He also extended warm birthday wishes to His Majesty on behalf of the club.
The exhibition highlighted the resilience of Brunei’s indigenous heritage, ensuring that cultural traditions remain visible and celebrated during the nation’s most important occasions.
